Sydney show: Toyota launches Mk. II Avalon

TOYOTA will give its slow-selling Avalon a fresh coat of paint, literally, along with a number of other changes as part of a series two upgrade for its large car competitor.

Dubbed the Mk II Avalon, the new series will be launched at this week's Sydney motor show and will target comfort and specification levels as areas for improvement.

A DVD-based satellite navigation system will be available in the revised Avalon, while to improve interior comfort, high solar energy absorbing (HSEA) glass will be used for the window glass in all models.

HSEA glass is said to absorb significantly more solar energy and UV rays than the tinted glass it replaces, thereby reducing heat build up within the vehicle and reducing air-conditioner load.

A new selection of exterior colours is also part of the Mk II package for Avalon.

The upgrade extends to all four models in the Avalon range - Conquest, CSX, VXi and Grande, with new audio units across the board, featuring larger buttons and displays.

The volume-selling Conquest also gains a single CD player with the new audio system, as well as new "Spectra" seat trim and a new wheel trim design.

Additional features in the CSX include 15-inch alloy wheels, new "Riviera" seat trim, body-coloured door handles and body coloured side protection mouldings.

The luxury VXi will get ten-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels with 205/60 profile tyres, while a new option pack consists of leather seat trim, sunroof and "Limited" badging.

Top-of-the-range Grande picks up the DVD-based touch-screen satellite navigation system, a wood and leather four-spoke steering wheel, unique 16-inch alloy wheels with seven pairs of spokes and a new audio system with separate amplifier and boot-mounted six-disc CD changer.

Pricing is yet to be announced.

Toyota will also unveil the next generation Corolla on its Sydney stand, giving show-goers a preview of the new five-door hatch and an all-new lifestyle wagon model prior to their Australian launch in December.

The Corolla's completely new design offers more interior space than the outgoing model courtesy of a longer wheelbase and increased roof height.

A new 1.8-litre engine with VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing - intelligent) will see the power output rise to 100kW, while at the same time improving fuel economy and exhaust emissions.

Safety improvements in the new model will include the availability of Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).

Other models to be part of the Toyota display include an upgraded HiLux range, a four-wheel drive hybrid-engined Tarago people mover, the Kluger mid-size four-wheel drive wagon and the company's first Formula One car, which is due to debut at next year's Australian Grand Prix.